The island of Pag is surrounded by the Adriatic's clear blue waters; and has amazing reefs, mysterious underwater caves, and even shipwrecks - all of which are teeming with an abundance of marine life. Here, experienced wreck divers will find torpedo ships and other WWII wrecks, and novices will discover beautiful rock formations and fascinating creatures such as seahorses, octopus, lobsters, groupers, and even frogfish. There are many dive sites around Pag - here are just five of the best.
Euterpe - Croatia Dive Sites
Built in 1886, the Euterpe was a steamship owned by the Austro Hungarian Lloyd Company. This ship and her sister ships used to carry travelers and tourists; when the First World War broke out, the ship was decommissioned and then put to use by military authorities. While on patrol on the evening of November 8th, 1918, Euterpe was hit by two torpedoes; 453 crew members lost their lives. Today, the 96 meter ship lies at a depth of 85 meters; the upper section of the mast is located at a depth of 69 meters. Needless to say, Euterpe is reserved for technical divers.
Lisicja Jama Cave - Croatia Dive Sites
Also known as Fox Den, Lisicja Jama Cave is a shallow, yet absolutely fascinating site. This cave is located at a depth of just 10 meters, and is entered through a horizontal tunnel. Inside, you'll find a stream that feeds in fresh water from the land above, plus you can surface and breathe fresh, clean air while you talk to your dive buddy. Look for crabs and lobsters, and keep an eye out for octopus and other creatures as you explore.
Maskalic - Croatia Dive Sites
A little island that is not much more than a huge rock, Maskalic features a vertical wall on its northeastern side. Here, you can descend all the way to 45 meters if you like; or, you can remain at a shallower depth. Along the way, look for sea urchins and lobsters, and keep an eye out for the big groupers that live in the area. Huge red gorgonians add color and motion to the wall, making it a site photographers find irresistible.
Maun Island - Croatia Dive Sites
A fantastic little island 9 kilometers long, Maun offers several dive sites all around its perimeter. A plateau tops the wall that encircles the island; just 3 meters deep in the shallowest areas, Maun Island is a fantastic site even for beginners. Experts will love this island too; at the bottom of the walls, maximum depth is 40 meters. All along the wall, you can explore cracks, caves, and little hollows festooned with red gorgonians, yellow coral, and blue-grey sponges; look for frogfish, lobsters, groupers, and lots of smaller fish as you explore.
Pohlib - Croatia Dive Sites
Not just one, but four caves can be found at Pohlib; directly in front of the largest of these caves is a canyon that is much like a natural aquarium. Here, you'll find an abundance of fish and plenty of crustaceans and other creatures; whether you're looking out into the blue or investigating the rock formations, you'll find wonders beyond compare.
Pag Island has two major towns and many smaller villages; grapes and other fruit are grown in its fertile soil, and to the southeast, a pair of karst lakes sparkle in the sunlight. Whether you're interested in sampling local cheeses and wines, or if you would rather party late into the night, you can do so here. With outstanding dive sites and plenty of opportunities for topside fun and exploration, this wonderful island is a destination everyone is certain to enjoy.